Pharrell Named One Of TIME’s ‘Most Influential People’ of 2014

Pharrell has a lot to “Happy” about. On top of having one of the biggest singles of the year, he’s managed to land himself on TIME Magazine’’s list of “The 100 Most Influential People.”

In the piece, Justin Timberlake acknowledges the Grammy Award winner for his achievements by sharing why he chose to work with the famed Neptunes producer on his first solo project.

“When I decided to work on my first solo album in 2002, Pharrell was the first musician I spoke to,” said Timberlake. “I was 21 and ready to say something to the world. But I needed someone to help me translate exactly what that something was. I knew from our first conversation that he was that person.”

The singer said Pharrell made him fearless and interjected liveliness into music. “He injects that vibrant energy into the music in a way that you can feel. Whether it’s the chord changes that remind you of another time or the melody that instantly grabs you, you are transported to another place. You smile, you dance, you clap along. His music actually does make you happy.”

Beyonce, President Obama, and Miley Cyrus also nabbed a spot this year’s list.– Chris M. Garner